NEWS  Musical Instruments  November 23, 2023  Reading time: 3 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Yamaha has unveiled the Genos2, the latest iteration of its flagship arranger workstation keyboard. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the Genos2 introduces a plethora of new sounds and features, propelling it to the forefront of musical innovation.

Sounds & Effects: A Symphony of Possibilities

The Genos2 boasts an expansive soundset, featuring over 1900 Voices and 75 Drum and SFX kits, providing a comprehensive palette that spans across genres. The addition of 200 new Styles brings the total count to an impressive 800, ensuring that musicians have a versatile toolkit at their fingertips. Piano enthusiasts will be delighted with the reprocessed CFX grand piano, offering enhanced sound quality with increased dynamic layers and double the sample length.

Noteworthy improvements include a dual engine synthesis capability, incorporating the iconic FM technology derived from the Yamaha DX7 alongside the original AWM technology. The introduction of Ambient Drums adds a new dimension to rhythm section control, allowing musicians to seamlessly transition from dry, close-miked kits to more distant, ambient drum sounds.

Controls & Performance: Illuminating the Stage

Yamaha has revamped the physical design of the Genos2, incorporating LEDs into the Live Control surface to indicate the current position of controls. A Catch function has been introduced to prevent accidental parameter alterations during performances. The brighter displays enhance visibility in various playing environments, and the redesigned user interface includes a new searching and sorting system for Playlist records.

Vocal Harmony presets, a Synth Vocoder, and a Chord Looper function further expand the Genos2's performance capabilities. A new HDMI port facilitates the output of lyrics or scores to an external display, adding a visual dimension to live performances.

Connect and Create

The Genos2 offers a robust selection of connectivity options, including MIDI inputs and outputs, USB ports, and a built-in USB audio interface. The inclusion of quarter-inch TRS sockets for stereo output, auxiliary stereo outputs, stereo input, assignable footswitch connections, and an XLR/TRS combo socket for the microphone input ensures a versatile range of connection possibilities.

Your Next Masterpiece: Elevate Your Sound

Pushing the boundaries of arranger workstation sound, the Genos2 introduces legendary DX7 FM technology, cutting-edge Ambient Drums, and Steinberg’s acclaimed REVelation Reverb. With Style Dynamics Control, musicians gain unprecedented control over the energy and dynamics of all 800 preset Styles, unlocking a new musical dimension. 

More than 1900 Voices and 800 Styles: Unlock Your Creativity

Featuring over 1900 Voices and 800 Styles with One Touch Settings, the Genos2 provides a wealth of musical inspiration. With new Pianos and reprocessed favorites, including the flagship CFX grand piano, the Genos2 caters to the diverse needs of musicians. S.Art2 Voices, renowned for their playability and realism, offer a vast array of options, covering full orchestral palettes and ethnic flavors.

Legendary FM Synthesis: A Dual Engine Powerhouse

Breaking new ground, the Genos2 incorporates a dual engine tone generator with AWM technology and FM synthesis. The rich, dynamic sound of FM technology, reminiscent of Yamaha’s iconic DX7, is seamlessly integrated into Styles and One Touch Settings, providing a warm and fresh sonic palette.

Ambient Drums, Style Dynamics Control, and REVelation Reverb: Shaping Your Sound

The Genos2 introduces Ambient Drums, offering unprecedented control over drum sounds. Style Dynamics Control allows for real-time adjustments to the energy and dynamics of all Styles, while the inclusion of Steinberg’s REVelation Reverb elevates the overall sound quality, delivering a transparent, natural sound across a wide range of applications.

The Yamaha Genos2 stands as a tangible proof to the brand's commitment to innovation and musical excellence, setting a new standard for arranger workstations. With its cutting-edge features, expanded soundset, and intuitive controls, the Genos2 invites musicians to embark on a journey of creativity and sonic exploration.

 IMAGES AND VIDEO BY YAMAHA